(Originally published November 4, 2007)

Friendzillae and How Not to Fanzilla #4: Get Up, Stand Up!

I'm glad to report that my protracted absence has been spent observing fanzillae in their natural habitats, and witnessing some truly fanzillatastic behavior.  In fact, I have had the privilege of watching friends blossom into the most wonderful fanzillae of all -- the friendzillae.  Friendzillae are those friends who are so passionate about the object of their obsession that they share every scintilla of news with you as a cherished gift.  And it is a gift -- the gift of their infectious enthusiasm, and an opportunity to bond over a common interest.  Also, having a friendzilla around puts a public face on one's (mostly private) obsessions.  Where some fanzillae might secretly trawl YouTube for ice dancing videos, most friendzillae share their finds and their enthusiasm.  And, if it's about ice dancing, then you know that it's a kindered spirit.  So, in sum, up with friendzillae!

Yet, in every crowd of fanzillae and friendzille, a little rain must fall.  Without further ado:

1.  To the people seated in the first row of Section 315 at Madison Square Garden on October 31:  Ok, so you weren't keen on standing for the concert, but covering your ears during the opening act was a little rude.  Still forgivable, since you weren't there to see them.  However, when you asked the usher to make the ENTIRE SECTION sitting in front of you sit down, that was going too far.  I'm not surprised you left early.